Ethics of Supervisor/Supervisee Relationships: Dual Relationships and Counseling

 

Ethics of Supervisor/Supervisee Relationships: Dual Relationships and Counseling
In the field of marriage and family therapy, maintaining ethical boundaries is crucial, particularly in supervisor/supervisee relationships. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Code of Ethics provides guidelines to ensure ethical conduct in these relationships. When a supervisor is asked to provide counseling for a supervisee, it raises the issue of a dual relationship, which requires careful consideration. To come to a sound ethical decision, several questions must be answered, as outlined below.

AAMFT Code of Ethics on Dual Relationships
The AAMFT Code of Ethics addresses the issue of dual relationships in Principle 4.3: “Marriage and family therapists avoid providing therapy to clients for whom the therapist has provided a forensic evaluation and avoid providing evaluations for those who are clients.” While this specific principle does not directly mention supervisor/supervisee relationships, it highlights the importance of avoiding dual relationships that may compromise the therapist’s objectivity, competence, or integrity.

Questions to Consider for Ethical Decision-Making
Is there a power differential? In supervisor/supervisee relationships, the supervisor holds a position of power and authority. If the supervisor also provides counseling for the supervisee, this power imbalance can create ethical concerns and potentially harm the supervisee’s professional development.

Does it compromise objectivity and fairness? Providing counseling to a supervisee may hinder the supervisor’s ability to objectively evaluate the supervisee’s performance. It can blur the lines between supervision and therapy, potentially impacting fairness and objectivity in the evaluation process.

What are the potential risks and benefits? Consider the potential risks and benefits of engaging in a dual relationship. Assess whether the benefits of providing counseling outweigh the potential risks to both the supervisee and the supervisor’s professional relationship.

Are there alternative resources available? Explore whether there are alternative resources, such as referring the supervisee to another therapist or counselor, that can provide appropriate support while maintaining professional boundaries.

What are the legal and ethical guidelines? Examine the legal and ethical guidelines of your jurisdiction and professional organization regarding dual relationships and supervisor/supervisee interactions. Ensure compliance with these guidelines in making an ethical decision.

Have you obtained informed consent? If you decide to provide counseling to a supervisee, ensure that informed consent is obtained. Clearly communicate the nature of the relationship, potential risks and benefits, and any limitations or boundaries that will be in place.

How will confidentiality be maintained? Establish clear guidelines on how confidentiality will be maintained within the counseling relationship while considering any legal or ethical obligations to report or disclose certain information.

Have you sought consultation or supervision yourself? Seek consultation or supervision from an experienced professional or supervisor outside of the supervisory relationship to gain an objective perspective and guidance in navigating this ethical dilemma.

By addressing these questions, marriage and family therapists can make a more informed and ethical decision regarding the provision of counseling for a supervisee. It is essential to prioritize ethical conduct, maintain professional boundaries, and ensure the well-being and professional development of both parties involved in the supervisor/supervisee relationship.